Not too much is going on down here in Dallas. Unfortunately, we took a tough 3-1 loss to the Galaxy at home last weekend, but it was only our first loss of the season and we're still in a pretty good position in the table. We're tied for second with Kansas City, and L.A. has played one more game than us, so we're not too worried at this point.
Two of the Galaxy's goals were really defensive errors on our part. We gave Jovan Kirovski a free header right in front of the goal and didn't close on him fast enough at the top of the box for the second one. On the third goal, Carlos Ruiz seemed to get nailed pretty hard, so I was pretty surprised when he popped back up and scored, but that's what makes him such a threat.
I am hoping that we can bounce back with a better performance at home again this Saturday when the Earthquakes come to town. They allowed five goals last weekend in that crazy game with the MetroStars, so hopefully their defense will struggle this weekend, too.
Obviously, they have some very dangerous attacking players, but I think if we tighten up in the back we can neutralize their offense. Landon Donovan is always someone you have to watch out for because he's a great player with a lot of skill. I think he was directly involved with at least three of their goals last weekend. I'm confident that Cory Gibbs and the rest of our defense can shut him down, though.
Personally, I'm hoping to add more to the team this weekend than I was able to against L.A. I've been nursing a minor injury, which is part of the reason the coach took me out. He's the coach and I respect his decisions, but I'd like to bring more to the table against San Jose.
And speaking of bringing more to the table, it was great to see Jason Kreis back on the field last weekend. He's looking really strong in training and it's just going to take him a little bit of time to get back to match fitness and form, but I know he'll get there. Anytime you come back from a long layoff you're not the same right away. Before long, I'm sure he'll be scoring goals left and right.
Hope to see you all at the Cotton Bowl Saturday.
-Brad
